Abstract:
The subclavian artery is a major constituent of the blood circulatory system. Its position in the root of the neck and its course through the interscalene triangle are significant. Its branches supply divers areas in the body from the brain to the thorax. This case report describes an unusual range of anatomical variations of the course of the left subclavian artery, the origin, and absence of some of its branches and the concomitant abnormal course of the phrenic nerve. Clinical syndromes related to certain variations are reviewed. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.